Applying Modern Technologies to Ensure Festival Tourism Safety

Suszter, Tamás (2026) Applying Modern Technologies to Ensure Festival Tourism Safety. MAGYAR RENDÉSZET, 26 (2). pp. 63-75. ISSN 1586-2895 (nyomtatott), 1787-050X (online)

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Abstract

Introduction: Music festivals such as Sziget, OZORA and EFOTT attract thousands of visitors on occasion, making the safety of festivals and their surroundings a top priority. Ensuring the safety of mass events is an increasingly complex task these days, which cannot be achieved by relying solely on traditional law enforcement measures.Objective: The aim of my thesis is to present technological solutions that can be used to effectively increase the safety of large-scale events such as the OZORA Festival. In my study, I provide an overview of the technological possibilities and present the special applications of drones, RFID/NFC systems, biometric identification and digital radio communication devices, explaining the position of the festival organiser and festival visitors in relation to each application.Methodology: My research is based on a combination of direct observation and qualitative methods. The literature review provides the theoretical framework, my personal experiences at festivals, recorded interviews and questionnaires provide the practical perspective, while legal documents present the formal regulatory environment. Through this complex methodological approach, my study provides an opportunity to present the application and possibilities of modern technologies that help to ensure and guarantee the safety of festival tourism. The study pays particular attention to drones, RFID/NFC systems, biometric identification and digital radio communication devices. The research is based on a review of the literature, case studies and personal interviews, including interviews with Árpád Zimányi, the main organiser of the OZORA festival, and Adrienn Riba, an “experienced” festival-goer.Results: In addition to traditional security measures, the use of modern technologies, including camera systems, license plate and facial recognition combined with artificial intelligence, drones, and electronic access control systems, are increasingly playing a role in securing events, managing crowds, and preventing emergencies. New technologies also play a key role in rapid response to emergencies, crisis management, and prevention. Festival security systems are increasingly integrated: cameras, websites, apps, drones, real-time data sharing between organisers and insurance providers, as well as event attendees, can take security to a higher level. Future developments should focus on transparency, ethical application, and respect for participants’ rights, as festival attendees prioritise privacy over security. Online resources, practical experiences, and international examples also provide a good indication of the direction of development.Conclusion: Modern technologies contribute significantly to maintaining and increasing the security of large music festivals, however, when using these technologies, special attention should be paid to ethical and data protection issues. The results of the study contribute to the international literature on festival security and offer guidance to festival organisers and private security professionals. I suggest directions for future research on the topic, development and use, along with the implementation of data protection regulations.

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